Jade plants are a popular houseplant known for their easy care requirements. However, sometimes the normally green leaves can turn red, leaving plant owners concerned.
Red leaves on a jade plant are often nothing to worry about. But in some cases, it can signal problems with care or growing conditions.
In this article, we’ll cover all the reasons a jade plant can get red leaves. That way, you can troubleshoot the cause and take steps to return it to lush green growth.
Reasons Jade Plant Leaves Turn Red
There are several reasons why your jade plant’s leaves might be turning red from green. These are the most common ones.
Variety-Specific Traits
Some jade plant varieties naturally develop red hues on their leaves or leaf margins. This trait is part of their specific appearance.
For example, the ‘Sunset’ cultivar has yellow leaves with red edges And ‘Hobbit’ jades have long green leaves with bright red tips
So first, identify your specific jade variety to see if red leaves are normal.
Excess Light
The most common reason indoor jade plants get red leaves is too much light. Direct sun through a south or west window can cause red leaf tips or margins.
When jades are left out in the sun, they often turn red. To get the leaves back to green, move the sick plant to bright, indirect light.
Underwatering
Lack of water causes jade plant leaves to shrivel and turn red. This often happens with new plants until their watering needs are established.
Check for wrinkled, off-color leaves and water thoroughly. The leaves should plump back up in a few days.
Overwatering
Too much moisture can also cause red leaves. Overwatering causes dropped leaves, root rot, and leaves turning red then brown.
Let the soil dry out completely between waterings and water less often. A moisture meter can help you figure out when your jade needs water.
Temperature Extremes
If you put jade leaves in very cold or very hot weather, they can turn red. Indoor jades don’t like drafts from doors, windows, and air vents.
Keep your plant between 65-75°F and avoid setting it in drafty areas. Outdoor jades need to be moved indoors or protected when temps drop below 50°F.
Sunburn
Outdoor jades exposed to full sun can develop red, blistered, or burned leaves, especially if it’s not acclimatized. Move the affected plant to a shady spot until it recovers.
When moving any jade into a sunnier location, do it gradually over several weeks. This gives the leaves time to adjust and prevent sun scorch.
Pests
Heavy infestations of pests like mealybugs, mites, or scale insects can cause red spotting on jade plant leaves. Check for signs of bugs on the leaves and stems if you see suspicious spots.
Isolate and treat infested plants immediately to prevent the pests from spreading. Remove badly damaged leaves and use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Lack of Nutrients
An absence of nutrients in the soil can sometimes trigger red leaves. Jades are not heavy feeders but still require some fertilizer to thrive.
Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer at 1/2 strength during the active growing season in spring and summer.
What to Do About Red Jade Leaves
Now that you know why jade plant leaves turn red, here are some tips to return your plant to normal green growth:
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For red leaves caused by excess light, move the jade back from the window and provide bright indirect light. Gradually reintroduce it to more sun over time.
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If under-watering is the issue, give the plant a thorough soaking and check soil moisture regularly. Leaves should plump back up within a few days.
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For overwatering, allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Remove any rotted roots and repot in fresh soil if needed.
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Protect outdoor jades from temperature swings by moving pots indoors or using covers as needed.
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Treat any pests immediately and isolate affected plants to prevent spreading. Remove badly infested leaves.
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Use a balanced fertilizer at half strength to provide nutrients if deficiency is suspected.
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For serious cases, take stem cuttings and root them to start a new healthy jade plant.
The key is observing your plant closely and identifying the underlying cause of the red leaves. Address any care issues promptly to keep your jade green and growing happily! Proper light, water, temperature, and pest monitoring will ensure your jade thrives for years to come.
